-
When did you realize you were really in labor?
I did not get to experience the true meaning of this.. I was "overdue" at 41 weeks 2 days. I had gone in for a scheduled Non stress test at 1pm. And when I checked in my blood pressure was high at 151/83 (normal for me is around 122/65.) I knew at that moment that I was not going to be able to leave the hospital but that I would finally get to meet my baby soon!
-
What was the most challenging thing about going natural?
The most challenging aspect of going natural is sticking to your decision. Sometimes our mind gets the better of us and it can difficult to overcome. I ended up being induced because I had developed pre eclampsia and I sat in the bed crying over it wanting to have a natural birth. But I realized my health and babies health was more important than that.
-
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
-
What was the most helpful thing you did to prepare for childbirth?
The most helpful thing was listening to Youtube videos that were powerful, positive affirmations of natural childbirth. I remember repeating a lot of them during labor. Things like "contractions are not stronger than you because contractions are you." I also prayed a lot before hand and even said a short prayer right before 10 cm when I started pushing.
-
What surprised you about your birth?
What surprised me the most was how strong the contractions were! I was induced with Pitocin so I know that it brought them on a little stronger. I tried to breathe through them as best as I could. But finally I felt like I hit a breaking point and asked for something to take the edge off. When they checked me I was already at 9cm! They gave me stadol and I remember finally being able to relax and just breathe. I was surprised to learn how easy and natural the pushing phase felt! I listened to my body and just relaxed and let it take over. My active labor was 3 hours total with the last 26 minutes of pushing.
-
Go in with a plan and be head strong and aggressive about what you want. Don't be afraid to speak up and have a written plan. But also go in with a back up plan to your plan just in case there are complications.
-
What pain relief strategies worked best?
Focusing on breathing really helped for me. I tried to focus on one object but many times I just ended up closing my eyes. So instead I kept my eyes closed during contractions and would focus on my nose and try to imagine how much air I was breathing in and out. In between I would look at my husband who would encourage me.
-
What position did you end up delivering in?
I was in a hospital bed lying down. It's the only position they let you deliver in.
-
How did it feel to hold your baby for the first time?
It is the biggest mix of emotions all at one time. And I'm sure you will never feel it again (until you have another baby possibly!) I remember after my husband cut the cord they placed him on me skin to skin right away as I had requested. I was crying and smiling and I kept repeating "I can't believe I did. I can't believe I just had a baby." It was really a blur but just so beautiful.
-
What advice can you give to other mamas who want to go natural?
Go in with a plan and be head strong and aggressive about what you want. Don't be afraid to speak up and have a written plan. But also go in with a back up plan to your plan just in case there are complications. It's difficult to overcome obstacles unless you have that back up plan accounted for, then it's easier to focus on the well being of yourself and baby. Also believe in yourself and your body!
